Flipping the Big Switch

Hoping to extend the momentum generated by the government’s “Cash for Appliances” rebate program that rewards shoppers for purchasing ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances, Sears has launched a new initiative dubbed “The Big Switch.”

For Sears, the EPA’s 2010 ENERGY STAR Retail Partner of the Year, “The Big Switch” is all about educating consumers and making them aware of the benefits of replacing inefficient, outdated appliances with ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances. By helping families to remove millions of inefficient appliances from the energy grid, Sears’ initiative has the potential to save families more than $2,500 on their utility bills.

Sears’ goal is “to create a movement” that encourages “even more customers to take the ENERGY STAR Pledge, consider ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances and learn more about the small steps they can take to make a difference for our environment,” says Sears president of home appliances Doug Moore.

Beyond the financial savings, The Big Switch is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the replacement and responsible disposal of old appliances. Sears is the first retail member of the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program.